From one woman to another

Mariah's black coat shimmered under the dappled sunlight as she padded towards Manea and Alastor's den. The scent of brewing tea and fresh berries reached her before she even got close, stirring memories of simpler times - of mornings spent in the safety and warmth of their presence. She took a moment to compose herself, shaking off unnecessary thoughts and worries like water droplets from her back.

From the entrance of the den, she could see Manea's silhouette against the warm glow of the fire. Despite the circumstances, an involuntary smile tugged at Mariah's lips as she spotted her mother fussing over the platter of food. Approaching the entrance, Mariah hesitated a moment before crossing the threshold- stepping into the warm embrace of the den. There was an odd comfort in this simple maternal tableau--Manea arranging food on a platter, the warm glow of firelight painting the space with a homely ambiance. It was a scene right out of her childhood and offered an odd sense of normalcy amidst

“It smells wonderful, Momma,” She began on a light tone, her voice soft and steady as she announced her presence with an affectionate grin.

"Mariah Mendacium"